Aging Gracefully Part.1: The Power of Quercetin for Your Beloved Pets!

Introduction

In veterinary medicine, dogs above 8 years old are typically considered senior dogs, while for cats, it's usually after 10 years old. Around this age, our pets may start to slow down and sleep more, and in some cases, they may show signs of health issues.

One day, while walking with one of my dogs in my community, I encountered a lady with two large dogs. As we approached each other, our dogs showed interest, so we allowed them to greet each other.
The new neighbor commented, "How cute your puppy is! How old is she?"
I replied, "She is eight."
The neighbor's reaction surprised me as she exclaimed, "Oh, she is a puppy!"
I clarified, "Well, she is eight years old."
​She seemed astonished and said, "Really? She is older than mine?"

Yes, my dog still has a lot of energy and is always ready to play, often initiating playtime with other dogs. I understand that she looks and acts younger than the average 8-year-old dog, more like a 2-year-old.
I take great pride in being a responsible dog owner who can keep my dogs healthy and youthful. I believe many of you also aspire to feel the same way.
​
I want YOU to experience that sense of accomplishment and satisfaction!

​New market: Anti Aging Supplement for Pets.

I've never considered the need for anti-aging supplements for pets before.
However, after my experience above, I've had a change of heart. While I enjoy seeing my dogs' fur change to a grey/whitish color, I don't want to see their paw pads become dry and cracked. Thankfully, this hasn't happened to my dogs yet. I also don't want to see their eyes become cloudy in the future.

It's not just about appearance; I know it's uncomfortable for pets, just like it would be for us.
We all want to keep our skin healthy and free from dryness and flakiness, right? And we want to maintain clear eyesight, don't we? The same goes for our furry friends.
​
So, I decided to delve into the ingredient lists of anti aging supplements.
Based on my research, I found that Quercetin/senolytics, NMN, NR, NA, NAR for NAD+, Rapamycin, and curcumin are common compounds in these products.
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In the upcoming posts, I will explore them further and share how they can benefit our beloved furry friends.

​What are Senolytics? What do they do?

​Senolytics are drugs or compounds that are designed to target and remove senescent cells in the body. Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing and are in a state of growth arrest, typically in response to damage or stress. While this state can initially prevent damaged cells from turning into cancer, the buildup of senescent cells over time plays a role in the aging process and the development of age-related diseases.
​Senolytics function by promoting the targeted elimination of senescent cells, which helps decrease their accumulation in tissues and potentially delays or alleviates age-related conditions. Some of the frequently studied senolytic compounds are dasatinib, quercetin, fisetin, and navitoclax.

​What is Quercetin?

Quercetin is a naturally occurring compound that belongs to a group of plant pigments called flavonoids. It is found in various fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin has been extensively studied for its health benefits in humans, but did you know that it can also provide incredible benefits for your beloved pets?

​Why is Quercetin good for anti-aging for people?

Before we dive into the benefits of Quercetin for pets, let's briefly touch upon why this compound is considered an excellent anti-aging supplement for humans.
​Quercetin has been shown to combat the harmful effects of oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to aging and age-related diseases. By neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation, Quercetin helps protect our cells from damage and promotes healthy aging. These same benefits can be extended to our furry friends.

​Introduction to Quercetin for pets

Quercetin is gaining popularity as a natural remedy for a wide range of pet health conditions. From allergies to inflammation, respiratory issues to joint health, Quercetin offers a holistic approach to supporting your pet's well-being. Unlike synthetic medications, Quercetin is a relatively safe and natural alternative that can be incorporated into your pet's daily routine.

​Understanding the benefits of Quercetin for pet health

​Quercetin offers a multitude of benefits for your pet's overall health. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and slowing down the aging process. Additionally, Quercetin has anti-inflammatory effects that can alleviate discomfort caused by inflammation, such as joint pain or skin irritations. By supporting your pet's immune system, Quercetin helps keep them healthy and resilient.

1. Quercetin as a natural remedy for pet allergies

If your pet suffers from allergies, Quercetin could be a game-changer. It acts as a natural antihistamine, inhibiting the release of histamine and reducing allergic reactions. Whether your pet experiences seasonal allergies or food sensitivities, Quercetin can help alleviate symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. It provides relief without the drowsiness often associated with conventional allergy medications.

2. Supporting pet immune system with Quercetin​

​A strong immune system is crucial for your pet's overall health. Quercetin plays a key role in supporting their immune system by enhancing the function of immune cells and regulating immune responses. By boosting their natural defenses, Quercetin can help your pet better fight off infections and stay healthy.

3. Quercetin for reducing pet inflammation

​Inflammation is a common issue in pets, especially as they age. Quercetin's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in various parts of the body, including joints, skin, and digestive system. This can provide relief for pets suffering from conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. By managing inflammation, Quercetin can improve your pet's mobility and overall comfort.

4. Using Quercetin to support pet respiratory health

​Respiratory issues, such as asthma or bronchitis, can greatly impact your pet's quality of life. Quercetin has been shown to have a positive effect on respiratory health by reducing inflammation in the airways and improving lung function. If your pet suffers from respiratory conditions, incorporating Quercetin into their daily routine may help alleviate symptoms and promote better breathing.

5. The antioxidant properties of Quercetin for pets

​One of the key benefits of Quercetin is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases and premature aging. By incorporating Quercetin into your pet's diet or using supplements, you can provide them with a powerful antioxidant boost, helping them stay healthy and vibrant.

6. Quercetin for maintaining healthy pet skin

​Skin conditions are common in pets and can cause discomfort and irritation. Quercetin's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe skin inflammation and reduce itching. It can also support the healing process of skin wounds or allergies. Whether your pet has dry skin, hot spots, or dermatitis, Quercetin can be a valuable addition to their skincare regimen.

7. ​Supporting pet cardiovascular health with Quercetin

​Cardiovascular health is essential for your pet's well-being. Quercetin has been shown to have positive effects on cardiovascular function by improving blood circulation and reducing oxidative stress. By supporting your pet's cardiovascular system, Quercetin can help reduce the risk of heart disease and promote a healthy heart.

Exploring different sources of Quercetin for pets

​While Quercetin can be obtained through supplements, it is always beneficial to incorporate it into your pet's diet through natural sources. Fruits and vegetables like apples, berries, broccoli, and kale are rich in Quercetin. Herbs such as parsley and dill also contain significant amounts of this powerful compound.
​It's important to prepare it properly. Fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly to remove any pesticides or harmful substances. It's best to serve them raw or lightly steamed to preserve the Quercetin content.

​Safety considerations when using Quercetin for dogs and cats

​While Quercetin is generally safe for dogs and cats, it's important to use it responsibly. Always follow the recommended dosage provided by your veterinary professionals or the manufacturer of the supplement. Keep in mind that individual pets may have different tolerances, so it's best to start with a lower dose and monitor their response.

​Conclusion

As pets age, their bodies may require additional support to maintain optimal health.
Quercetin supplements specifically formulated for aging pets can provide the necessary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support to help them age gracefully.
Whether you choose to incorporate it into their diet through natural sources or use supplements, Quercetin can be a valuable addition to your pet's daily routine. However, it's important to consult with your veterinary professionals before introducing any new supplements or making significant changes to their diet.

Need help?

​Interested in incorporating natural sources of Quercetin into their diet or exploring Quercetin supplements specifically formulated for pets? ​If you feel your pet could benefit from natural food and herbal care including mushrooms, consider scheduling an appointment with me. I’m happy to help you and your furry friend!

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​Resources:
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